Mardi Gras 2017 is February 28th. Mardi Gras is French for Fat Tuesday. And, is a day to let loose before Ash Wednesday (the next day). Ash Wednesday is the start of Lent.

So let loose with this hot Fat Tuesday Cocktails.

•  1 orange peel
  (reserve a few thin strips for garnish if desired)
• 1 lemon peel
• 8 brown sugar cubes
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 6 whole cloves
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup Grand Marnier
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2-1/4 cups hot brewed Cafe de Monde coffee

Directions

For the whipped cream: 1/2 cup heavy cream 1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar, to taste 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract Directions: To make the whipped cream, whip the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla in a medium bowl with a whisk or hand mixer until the cream holds soft peaks. To make the cocktails, place all ingredients except the coffee in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the sugar cubes have dissolved, remove the pan from the heat and carefully ignite the liquid with a long match or long-reach lighter. Allow the fire to burn for a minute or so, then pour on the hot coffee to extinguish the flames. Stir well. Ladle the drink into mugs, top with whipped cream, garnish with citrus peel if desired, and serve hot.